Plan A Denver Elopement: Mix Urban Vibes and Mountain Majesty
When it comes to epic Colorado elopements, Denver may not be the first location to come to mind. But hear me out – it has so much to offer couples looking for a mountain destination celebration for their Denver Elopement!
Plan Your Dream Denver Elopement With This Ultimate Guide
To start with, it’s an incredibly convenient spot to access. The Denver International Airport lets you fly right into the city, making travel easy for you and any guests you intend to include. It also has everything you need for entertaining, from amazing breweries and restaurants to concert halls and museums. You’ll definitely find way more things to do in metropolitan Denver than in a secluded mountain town. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Denver likely has it.
Additionally, a populated area like Denver will have tons of amazing wedding vendors from which you can choose for your elopement! From florists to bakeries and DJs to intimate reception venues, you’ll have your pick of some of the best vendors in the state right at your fingertips.
Eloping in Denver doesn’t mean giving up on the spectacular views and outdoor adventures, either! Yes, there’s plenty of modern convenience in the city, but just a few minutes outside of town, you’ll be able to hike and take advantage of so many amazing outdoor activities. It’s actually the perfect blend of convenience and rugged wilderness!
Starting to see the light? I’ve put together this Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Denver for you to peruse. Let me know what you think!
Table of Contents
When You Should Elope in Denver & How to Pick Your Date
Like most places in Colorado, Denver’s weather can be a bit unpredictable. Fall is almost always beautiful, with changing leaves and cooler temps. Peak autumn in Denver is typically around mid-October, which is a few weeks later than some of the surrounding mountain areas at higher elevations. Spring is the other season that can keep you on your toes; you may get a surprise snowstorm or a sunny day with perfect blue skies. I’m not urging against it. I’m just encouraging you to have a solid plan B, just in case!
Winter is actually an amazing season to elope in Denver, especially for anyone who may not consider themselves a big fan of the snow. Typically speaking, while you’ll still have colder weather, it won’t get nearly as frigid as other areas in the mountains. In fact, snow in Denver typically doesn’t last too long, except for at the tops of the nearby mountains, giving it that perfect snow-capped aesthetic.
Summer in Denver gets pretty hot, so if you’re trying to avoid the heat, you may want to think about taking your elopement to a higher elevation nearby. However, if sunny summer vibes and beautiful mountain views are your jam, then Denver could still be a great option!
Denver Elopement Locations
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is an incredible setting for an elopement. Say “I do” amidst the iconic red rock formations that are thousands of years old and almost look like something from another planet! Nearby, The Trading Post Backyard has a beautiful green garden and space designed just for small weddings. Tons of nearby beginner-friendly trails are perfect for taking pictures, too!
Panorama Point offers some pretty spectacular views overlooking hundreds of miles of the Continental Divide. This is one of the most scenic spots around Denver that will make you feel like you and your partner are truly on top of the world. Standley Lake is a great spot for a sunrise elopement, watching the sun come up over the Rocky Mountains and reflecting onto the beautiful, serene lake water. It’s an ideal, picturesque spot for a smaller elopement.
Cheesman Park is another simple elopement spot within Denver, with a gorgeous marble pavilion that creates a perfect setting for a vow exchange. Green lawns, picnic tables, and other park features make it a charming place for an elopement.
Just keep in mind that all of these locations can get pretty crowded on the weekends, so you’ll want to consider a weekday date! I’m also a huge fan of sunrise elopements, so you can beat the crowds while still capturing that incredible golden light for the most spectacularly romantic photos.
How to Get a Denver Marriage License
Getting a marriage license in Colorado is about as simple as it gets! You can apply for a license anywhere in Colorado; it doesn’t need to be in Denver if that’s where you’re planning to elope. There’s no waiting period, so once you have your license in hand, you’re good to go! As long as you use your license within 35 days of issue, you shouldn’t have any problem. There’s a small fee to pay and a few forms to fill out, but other than that, it’s a pretty laid-back process. You don’t even need witnesses or an officiant – in fact, your dog can be your witness and sign with their paw print if you’re so inclined!
What to Wear to Your Denver Elopement
What you choose to wear to your Denver elopement is totally up to you! Whether you’re dreaming of a long, elegant gown or something short, flirty, and sweet, Denver is a great place to have fun with what you’re wearing. Keep the weather in consideration, in case you’ll want to layer or plan for those hot summer temps. If you’re planning to take to the trails, you’ll also want a good pair of sneakers or hiking boots, but if you think you’ll stay in the city, any shoes will do!
How Much Does a Denver Elopement Cost?
A Denver elopement costs, well, as much as you’re comfortable budgeting! At the very least, you’ll need to pay for your marriage license and any location or photography permits needed (and I can help you navigate those, depending on where you decide to elope.) You’ll also want to take into consideration travel expenses, your attire, photographer and videographer costs, and details like flowers. Don’t forget, whether you invite guests or not, it’s still your wedding day, so you may want to budget for a celebratory meal or a fun adventure to embrace the specialness of the day!
Hiring a Denver Elopement Photographer
Hiring the right photographer for your elopement is so important so you can bring home an album full of memories from the best day of your life. Having treasured photos of your wedding day allows you to share those memories with friends, family, and generations to come. I would love to be your photographer, and with my experience, I’ll be able to help you navigate the planning process and find the perfect elopement spot for you. Just reach out – I’m here, ready and willing!
We Will Have A Blast At Your Dream Denver Elopement
A Denver elopement makes a great option for couples looking for flexibility and convenience without sacrificing any of the beauty. Let’s connect so we can talk about if it’s the right choice for you!